Page 14 - GHH KATALOG (PRINT)

Sorrygraph #4: “Recovery and Print”

In every place in the world, everyone must feel the pandemic and quarantine time back
in 2020-2021 are the hardest things to live. The anomaly of human life changes
drastically. There are many ways to get through this difficult time. Most people try to stay
productive by doing things out of their routine, but still be done from home, such as
farming, exercising, and making artwork, of course also providing mutual support to
each other. For the art workers, the pandemic period also forced them to do various
alternative activities, because, at that time, exhibitions, discussions, or all forms of art
events related to the interaction with many people is not allowed. The online-based
activity platforms are used for maximization to keep art making alive.

This pandemic period was also used as an opportunity by the Grafis Huru Hara/GHH
(Jakarta) collective to explore new printmaking techniques, create online discussions,
remap the printmaker network and make new friends. There were several online
nongkrong sessions with collective friends from various countries, such as Pangrok
Sulap (Sabah) and A3BC (Tokyo). Many things were discussed, from small talk to
discussing the various dynamics that occurred at that time, especially their activities in
dealing with the pandemic period in their countries. We also feel a commonality in the
spirit of sharing and the initiative in building a network among the artists wherever they
are.

In response to these things, the idea finally came up to create a collaborative exhibition
together. Through the edition of Sorrygraph #4: Recovery and Print, we want to voice a
message of concern among others in facing difficult times, with the medium of
postcards. Through this initiation, it is hoped that it can be an encouragement for all of
us, by spreading positive messages, such as reminding the public to maintain health and
exercise, stay sane, take care of each other's families, and grow crops independently to
maintain food security, as well as other messages of kindness.

The existence of postcards as a medium of correspondence is increasingly being eroded
by online media, which are faster to reach their destination, faster to reciprocate, and are
not limited by place and time. However, the physical form of postcards as a medium for
conveying messages (especially at certain moments) can represent the essence of
intimacy for both the sender and the recipient. There is a feeling of pride and joy when
people receive postcards from their colleagues.

This project is a way to maintain collective and studio sustainability, especially to start